Understanding Ambulatory Phlebectomy

Varicose veins may be a troubling venous condition for individuals in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin and other parts of the country due to their unsightly appearance. Varicose veins may appear bulging from the skin and may be purplish or bluish in color, leading to embarrassment and self-consciousness for many. What's more, these venous conditions may also cause pain and heaviness in the legs, leading many to seek treatment for this condition. Thankfully, there are several treatment options available to patients suffering from varicose veins including ambulatory phlebectomy.

This is a minimally-invasive procedure that involves using tiny incisions and vein hooks to remove problem veins. To begin the procedure, the patient will stand so the veins are visible and may be marked by the physician using a surgical marker. The patient then assumes the supine position and the leg is prepared using an antiseptic solution. Next, a local anesthetic is injected along the problem veins for comfort throughout the procedure.

With the entire treatment area injected with the anesthetic, tiny incisions are made along the veins and vein hooks are used to remove the problem veins. The incisions used are so small that sutures are not required and the incisions allow excess fluid to drain postoperatively. Pads may be placed next to the treatment area to absorb fluid and a compression bandage is used to wrap the vein.

The compression bandage may be left in place for about one to two days and the patient is often encouraged to walk shortly after the procedure, as the contraction of surrounding muscles is helpful in ridding the treatment area of excess fluid, may help reduce the risk of blood clots and contributes to the healing process.

When the compression bandage is removed, compression stockings may be worn for one to three weeks to continue to aid in the healing process. Patients are typically able to return to work or resume other normal activities in about one to three days, although prolonged standing and heavy lifting should be avoided in the weeks following ambulatory phlebectomy. A medical professional in the Oconomowoc area should provide further details and guidelines regarding recovering from this procedure.

There are certain risks and complications that may be associated with ambulatory phlebectomy including bleeding and infection. Because of the small incisions used to perform this treatment, these complications are typically less common compared to traditional vein stripping procedures. Incisions typically heal without scarring, although darker skinned individuals may require a longer recovery period before the areas fade completely. Other potential complications include discoloration of the surrounding skin, numbness and tingling, although these problems should resolve on their own within a few days. Patients should consult a medical professional in the Oconomowoc area to discuss these possible complications.

Ambulatory phlebectomy may be covered by insurance, although some insurance companies may require more conservative methods of therapy be tried first including wearing compression stockings, weight loss and exercise. If these therapies are unsuccessful in relieving the symptoms of ambulatory phlebectomy, insurance may cover the cost of treatment. Patients should consult a medical professional as well as their insurance company for further information regarding whether ambulatory phlebectomy will be covered. The cost of this treatment may vary depending on the extent of the treatment area, as well as other factors including the clinic chosen and one's geographic location.

Learn more about ambulatory phlebectomy in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin.